Each year, the Irrigation Association’s Anthony W. “Tony” LaFetra Scholarship program recognizes a group of exceptional students whose passion, dedication and potential reflect a bright future for the irrigation industry. In this special Q&A series, Irrigation & Lighting introduces the 2026 scholarship recipients. These outstanding individuals are already making an impression through their academic achievements, professional goals and commitment to advancing water-efficient practices.
Get to know these emerging leaders as they share their perspectives, inspirations and aspirations, offering a glimpse into the talent and enthusiasm shaping the next generation of our industry.
Andrew Fleet
2026 Anthony W. “Tony” LaFetra Scholar
Oklahoma State University
What does receiving this scholarship mean to you?
Being awarded this scholarship relieves much of the initial financial burden of graduate school. This scholarship will allow me to attend classes that will sharpen my skills as an Extension Educator. It also tells me I am on the right path to further my education, experience, and research goals.
What are your future plans in the irrigation or broader industry?
In graduate school, I would like to pursue research focused on advanced filtration, treatment, and water recycling technologies for irrigation and drinking water. My long-term goal is to contribute to projects that support future space exploration, particularly those involving long-duration space travel and the establishment of sustainable human settlements on the Moon and Mars. Beyond their applications in space, these technologies could be adapted to improve access to safe water in rural communities, underserved regions, and developing countries on Earth. By bridging the fields of water resources, environmental science, and engineering, I hope to help create innovative solutions that address both the challenges of future space missions and the growing global need for clean, sustainable water.
What sparked your interest in this field?
Water, whether directly or indirectly, influences nearly every aspect of our lives. Beyond sustaining human life, it is essential for public health, social stability, agricultural production, economic development, energy generation, cultural practices, and recreational practices. Healthy water resources also support ecosystems that provide critical services such as water filtration, flood mitigation, and biodiversity conservation.
What advice or encouragement would you give to others exploring this career path?
It’s so incredibly important to be able to see water management from different professional perspectives. Chemistry, economics, irrigation installation, engineering, policy, and more all directly tie into water. Don’t allow yourself to become stagnant or silo yourself off from the rich knowledge and experience other water professionals.
